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Resource reviews are provided for teachers to support their teaching and learning programs.
The views expressed by reviewers are not necessarily those of the NSW Department of Education and Training. Copyright for reviews is held by the NSW Department of Education and Training. Permission for reproduction of reviews in part or full for any purpose must be sought in writing. For further information contact colleen.foley@det.nsw.edu.au
Sites are listed alphabetically by title and also listed under topic headings below. Those reviews which note links to other sites, especially as a major part of the site, will require additional exploration time. Please note that changes happen daily on the Internet. Sites come and go. We cannot guarantee that the following sites are permanent or are structured as they were when they were reviewed.
Timber and timber products
Eximcorp: an innovative
solution to your needs of plywood and other wood panel products
Woodworking plans:
Adirondack chairs, wood working projects, woodworking plans
Plastics
BPF: the home page for the UK plastics industry
Building and construction
ASEE Engineering K12 Center: where to go for K-12 engineering education
Buildata:
Building Australia online
Building and construction toolbox
Tall buildings
Digital design
Digital Roman Forum
Dynamic
drive DHTML (dynamic html) code library
NEEDS: a digital library for engineering education
Patents and intellectual
property
United
States Patent and Trademark Office home page
IPAustralia
Materials
Designing for Sustainable Living learning object
Introduction to
biomaterials properties database
MatWeb, the online
materials information resource
Design
All-Write
site: Frank Lloyd Wright building code
Architect Studion 3D
Flying pig gallery
Powerhouse Museum
Glenn Murcutt
Sydney Opera House
YBE2004: Houses of the Future
Architecture : traditional and modern
Technology
3D model builder: learn the language of PlayStation
Lovitt
Technology
HowStuffWorks
Intellecta Technologies
Carlovers car wash
AbleStable : serving the creative community
Technologystudent.com: a design and technology site
Research
Choice
Marketing
Vegemite
Environmental and ethical
issues
EnviroNET
CHAPPY: children helping achieve planet preservation with you
Australian Institute of landscape designers and managers
Design and Technology
education
The Exploratorium’s
science of cycling
STEPS (science & technology education
in primary schools)
University of Technology
3D model builder: learn the language of PlayStation 
The site is a graphic design program used to create rendered images of 3D objects. Tutorials are provided for step-by-step instructions on drawing organic shapes, curves, buildings, models and engineering products. The user must first download the CAD software from the website and then follow the detailed tutorials to construct the various models. Initial trial software is free with the option to purchase additions to the basic package. Some designs are labelled as simple tasks for children, and examples of basic projects include building police cars, animals, buildings, boats and helicopters. Colourful and enthusiastically constructed, the site is an interesting learning tool for design and ICT topics. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: CA; TAS
SYLLABUS: Computing Applications CEC Stage 6; Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Graphics Technology 7–10; Visual Design CEC Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Computer-aided design; Graphic arts
PUBLISHER: TheyerGFX, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 17/12/07 [620] SCIS 1336091
AbleStable : serving the creative community
A community resource for creative arts, this web
site is a very useful source of ideas and information for art, computing,
and business students. In Articles, topics explain artists’ work in such areas as Business, Web design, and using the Internet. What’s new relates developments in the creative community, with a technological focus, and Tools contains useful artistic, mathematical, and technological online tools. The interactive Exhibitions uses photography and written text for excellent examples of web site design. Senior art students and English students will also find inspiration here. The site contains information for a variety of syllabuses, and teacher research will assess the full benefit of what is on offer. This will be time well spent. N. French
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA; English; HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Business Studies Stage 6; Design & Technology Stage 6; English Stage 6: Extension 2; Software Design & Development Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8;Visual Arts 7–10; Visual Arts Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Arts
PUBLISHER: AbleStable, UK
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [700] SCIS 1183523
All-Write
site: Frank Lloyd Wright building code
One of the most important aspects of education is to incorporate relevance
into teaching experiences. This resource provides information and educational
links based on one of the world's most influential urban designers,
Frank Lloyd Wright. Students will be informed about how local and global
environments, and materials used, affect design solutions in relation
to architecture, furniture design, and technology. Linked lesson resources
will enable students to investigate the use of the design process,
identify factors affecting design and to develop ideas on presenting
design solutions and ideas. Although the content applies to American
examples of architecture, the principles and processes can be easily
translated into NSW classrooms. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design & Technology Stage
6; Industrial Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, American; Architecture, Modern - 20th
century; Design; Wright, Frank Lloyd
REVIEW DATE: 01/03/06 [720.92] SCIS 1244088
Architect Studio 3D
An interactive student centred resource, this site is in line with
architectural and engineering based design concepts that can be applied
to Design and Technology and Industrial Technology syllabuses. Students
can develop their knowledge of drawing concepts by using standards.
They can explore spatial relationships and architectural designs by
completing interactive activities, such as designing floor plans and
three dimensional models of houses. These activities are based on identified
criteria, such as who the house is being built for and where it will
be located. Extension activities can be created from design based activities,
which require students to engage in the design process and to scaffold
their production of design ideas and presentation. This site can be
slow to load, but the 3D tools more than compensate for the wait. B.
Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design & Technology Stage
6; Industrial Technology 7-10; Industrial Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, Domestic - Designs and plans; Houses
PUBLISHER: Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust, USA
REVIEW DATE: 01/03/06 [728] SCIS 1219198
Architecture : traditional and modern
With an emphasis on traditional architecture, this site provides details on the designs used in structures and styles, including the materials used and the reason behind the shapes used. Images are plentiful and inspiring. Technology students can research Measurements and Tools, and complete supported research projects on wood construction. In Teaching materials, a Webquest adventure based on traditional architecture will help Technology students achieve outcomes related to research and communication of ideas. Images and information on seventeen World cultural heritage sites will support Geography students completing Investigating the world. The site will also assist teachers in addressing multicultural influences on architecture within Australian society. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6;
Geography 7–10; Industrial Technology Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, Japanese
PUBLISHER: L.A. Makela, USA
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [720.952] SCIS 1183369
ASEE Engineering K12 Center: where to go for K-12 engineering education
It is great to see a site that demonstrates the diversity of study and practice options in engineering. Careers are explained in The engineering alphabet. Careers advisors can benefit from the site as it has downloadable pamphlets on the various fields of engineering and possible career paths. Students will be able to determine whether engineering studies are right for them by taking a series of online quizzes which ask questions about the way they think and learn. Teachers can access a large library of lesson activities and web resources to produce lessons that promote problem solving and teamwork in pairs or large groups. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Engineering Studies Stage 6; Industrial Technology Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Engineering; Engineering – Study and teaching
PUBLISHER: American Society for Engineering Education
REVIEW DATE: 16/07/07 [620.007] SCIS 1212844
Australian Institute of landscape designers and managers
Information on the integration of environmental sustainability and commercial landscaping is provided on this interesting web resource. Students can access feature articles addressing current issues such as Droughts days, Designer vs council and Water features. The Education section details how schools have developed specific landscape projects, such as Rearing a rainforest, and is an excellent introduction forStage 4 students. Teachers will find a plethora of information based on the application of design principles to landscaping, including business requirements such as dealing with clients and budgets. The site also provides plans and requirements for standard customer submissions. Produced by a professional institute, this resource also offers avenues for students to explore information about courses and further training that can be accessed from various providers. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology
Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Landscape architecture
PUBLISHER: Australian Institute of Landscape
Designers & Managers, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [712] SCIS 1187124
BPF: the home page for the UK plastics industry
Dealing with issues in plastics across the industry, this site provides educational and training information in Plastics materials. Animations help explain the production and processing methods used to develop and produce various types of plastics. There are detailed lists of plastic compositions and outlined examples of their use in various industries. How to process plastics contains information about recycling. The site is aimed at professionals and the language used is technical in some sections, making it a complex resource for students. It would be a useful site for Design and Technology syllabuses and the Senior Science Option: Polymers. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: Science; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Senior Science Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Plastics industry – Great Britain
PUBLISHER: British Plastics Federation, UK
REVIEW DATE: 17/12/07 [338.4] SCIS 1336100
Buildata: Building Australia
online
Buildata is an Australian commercial web
site that is devoted to building products and services. It provides
building professionals and amateurs with an up to date building
product library. Information about building products would prove
useful to those involved in developing projects in the architectural
area, building construction, and woodworking. Students engaged
in technical drawing within many subjects will also find downloadable
CAD drawings from this site, showing technical specifications
to Australian standards. Links, which teachers would need to
explore to verify their curriculum relevance, exist to many companies
providing product information for the phases of designing, construction,
and fitting out of buildings from domestic and commercial settings.
The database is searchable. P. Thompson, R. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design and Technology
Stage 6; Technical Drawing 7-10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Building industry Australia; Building materials
KEYWORDS: Architecture; building products
PUBLISHER: DataTech (WA) P/L trading as Buildata, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 12/9/00 SCIS 1031483
EMAIL: info@buildata.com.au
Building and construction toolbox
Building techniques and workplace related topics are interestingly presented in this resource. The site is very easy to navigate with an interactive site supervisor to show students how to get the most from the website. Colourful, carton style graphics support the written text in explaining different aspects of the construction industry, and interactive quizzes help reinforce concepts taught. The site covers workplace communication, carpentry, plastering, tiling, painting, bricklaying, and demolition. OH&S forms an element of each topic. The site is current, informative and pleasant to use, making it particularly suitable for TAS and VET students. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: TAS; VET
SYLLABUS: Construction Curriculum Framework Stage 6; Design & Technology Stage 6; Industrial Technology 7–10; Industrial Technology Stage 6; Metal & Engineering Curriculum Framework Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Builders – Training; Building – Study and teaching; Vocational education
PUBLISHER: Holmesglen Training and Development, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 10/09/07 [690.07] SCIS 1318073
Carlovers
the ultimate carwash
An example of an entrepreneurial activity that has
focused on a need to provide an environmentally safe service is provided
by this small, self contained site. An innovative car washing
service is described. The page outlines the environmental issues
involved in relation to water saving features and energy savings.
This company has won many environmental awards and is recognised
by the CSIRO for its positive environmental impact. It is also
useful for students to view this site as an example of a marketing
activity.
T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U/3U Design & Technology
SCIS SUBJECTS: Environmental protection; Motor vehicles
KEYWORDS: Carwash
PUBLISHER: Carlovers Carwash Limited
REVIEW DATE: 10.7.98
EMAIL: info@carlovers.com.au
CHAPPY: children helping achieve planet preservation with you
Environmentally based problem solving activities will benefit from utilising this fantastic integrated web resource. The stand alone program is easily downloaded, allowing students to study the effects of housing and industry and the efficient use of energy on the environment. Students can study Energy and Water usage within their homes, including how much GGE, greenhouse gas emissions, are produced from each appliance in order to calculate the environmental impact of their families. Numeracy outcomes can be addressed by completing activities on calculating Energy bills and reading graphs to interpret information. Detailed hints and a glossary are available in each section, assisting students in developing literacy and ICT skills. APrimary school project book and a High school project book can be downloaded in pdf format from Workbook. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: Science, ST; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Science 7–10; Science & Technology K–6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Energy conservation; Environmental protection; Sustainable development
PUBLISHER: BHP, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [333.791] SCIS 1186496
Choice
Students are able to use this site to access secondary
research on a product that they may be investigating in Design and
Technology. There is a Product search feature, and a product list.
Other
categories include Computers and phones, Food, Money, Health,
and Energy and environment. There is a section on consumer rights
and a What's hot section that examines recent findings on a number
of new products and services. This interesting, well designed
site is updated frequently, and uses direct language that students
will relate to, for example it describes products as lemons.
Students can examine some interesting issues, including airbag
safety in cars, environmental labelling and health issues for
indigenous people in the Northern Territory. Online forums have
been established where consumers can have their say about a product
or service, and feedback forms are designed to obtain consumer
comment on the products investigated. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U Design & Technology; 2U Food Technology;
2U Computer Studies
SCIS SUBJECTS: Consumer education; Consumer protection
KEYWORDS: Australian Consumers Association; Choice
PUBLISHER: Australian Consumers Association
REVIEW DATE: 9.7.98
EMAIL: Available on site
Designing for Sustainable Living learning object
This resource provides for a range of learning experiences for students,
and supports learning about tools and equipment, materials, and techniques
in Design and Technology 7–10. The website provides students
with a resource to design houses with a sustainable design through
an interactive trial of the learning object. Students may apply technology
practice and select materials as part of the decision making process
and manage resources and materials to increase the sustainability
of the design. Students work through each stage of designing the
house and gain a score for their work. There is a helpful teacher’s
section to aid in planning and using the resource in the classroom.
A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage
4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology
Stage 6; Technology (Mandatory) 7–8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, Domestic – Environmental
aspects; Building – Environmental aspects; Energy conservation; Environment – Economic
aspects; Houses – Design and construction – Problems, exercises,
etc ; Houses – Design and construction – Study and teaching; Houses – Environmental
aspects; Sustainable development
PUBLISHER: Education
Queensland Distance Learning Unit, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 26/05/06 [728.047] SCIS
1238291
Digital Roman Forum
A scholarly and comprehensive insight into the buildings of the Roman Forum is provided by this website. Students are able to access the digitally reconstructed Forum through plans, timelines and aerial photos. Each building is described in terms of its history and how the reconstruction was undertaken, with model information. Quicktime is needed to view the movie or 3-D views. This would be an invaluable resource for Ancient History students completing the Roman historical periods, as its overview of the development of the Forum is excellent. Stage 6 Visual Arts students may also find this site a useful adjunct to their art history and practical art components, while Design and Technology students could find this an interesting approach to model making and design problems. B. Hull
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: CA; HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Ancient History Stage 6; Design & Technology Stage 6; Visual Arts Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture – Models; Architecture, Roman; Civilisation, Roman; Computer simulation; Rome (City) – Historic buildings, sites, etc
PUBLISHER: University of California, USA
REVIEW DATE: 04/04/08 [722] SCIS 1341633
Dynamic drive DHTML
(dynamic html) code library
An excellent resource for students and
teachers building their own web sites, this site explores programming
with Java. Especially useful for students of the Software
Design and Development: Stage 6 syllabus (1999), samples
of scripts are offered as guides to use when creating pages with
dynamic HTML (hyper text markup language) to create: Menus
and navigation systems; Special document effects;
Scrollers; Links and buttons; and Text animations.
All scripts are free to use if acknowledged. For Stage 6 students
of design and technology and information processes and technology,
who may not be as proficient in programming, there are helpers
and wizards to assist in the development of web page presentations.
P. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design and Technology Stage 6; Information Processes
and Technology Stage 6; Software Design and Development Stage
6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Web sites Design and construction
KEYWORDS: DHTML; dynamic HTML; Java; JavaScript; web pages;
programming
PUBLISHER: Dynamic Drive
REVIEW DATE: 12/02/01 SCIS 1036127
EMAIL: dynamicdrive@yahoo.com
EnviroNET
Australia
A network of environmental databases providing information
on a range of environmental issues is provided by this site. Databases
are grouped as: Industry expertise; Cleaner production; Environmental
education; Research and development; Hazardous wastes; and Environmental
technologies. There are case studies, easily found under the
What's new section, which are categorised by industry, for example
manufacturing and construction. The case studies have a background
statement, and an issue overview. The solution adopted by the
company to an environmental issue is outlined and the benefits
to the environment explained. The case studies are Australian.
The site has few pictures, but the information is current and
relevant. There are links to educational institutions and international
environment sites. Time would be needed to verify the curriculum
relevance of these links. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U Design & Technology
SCIS SUBJECTS: Industry, social aspects; Environmental
protection
KEYWORDS: Environet; hazardous wastes
PUBLISHER: Environment Protection Group
REVIEW DATE: 10.7.98
EMAIL: epg@ea.gov.au
Eximcorp:
an innovative solution to your needs of plywood and other wood
panel products
Specifications and safety information for
timber and timber products can be found at the site of this timber
supply company. The Medium density fibre boards page should
be of interest to all teachers thinking of using this material
in their workshops. Information on: Plywoods; Particle
boards; Veneers; HMR boards; block boards; inlays;
and laminates, are also present. There are graphics showing typical
uses and details about: Availability; Storage, handling
and maintenance; safety; and Properties. The
information is comprehensive in detail. It would be appropriate
for senior students and teachers who are designing and producing
in timber or timber products. P. Thompson, R. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design and Technology
Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Laminated wood; Particle board; Veneers
KEYWORDS: Particle boards; plywood; timber products; wood
PUBLISHER: Eximcorp India Private Ltd, India
REVIEW DATE: 12/9/00 SCIS 1031510
EMAIL: eximcorp@giascl01.vsnl.net.in
Flying
pig gallery
Animated cardboard models may be purchased
through this site. The models are constructed easily, using a
sharp knife, scissors, and glue. Each model investigates a mechanism,
and the completed models work! The site includes some downloadable
free samples. This site would provide inspiration to teachers
and students investigating mechanical systems. Of equal value
are the pages explicitly dealing with mechanisms. Simple animations
show the workings of Cams, Levers, Linkages, Ratchets, Crank slider,
and Gears. These
are colourful and informative, with excellent descriptions and
explanations. P. Thompson, R. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage
6
KLA: ST; TAS
SYLLABUS: Science & Technology K-6; Design & Technology
7-10; Design and Technology Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage
6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Gearing; Mechanical movements; Models
and model making
KEYWORDS: Gallery; gears; mechanisms; pulleys
PUBLISHER: Flying Pig Company, UK
AUTHOR: IVES, Rob
REVIEW DATE: 12/9/00 SCIS 1031519
EMAIL: rod@flying-pig.co.uk
Glenn Murcutt
A comprehensive case study on the world renowned Australian
architect, Glenn Murcutt, is the focus of this interesting web site.
Students will learn about the influences that shape modern Australian
architecture: materials used, environmental considerations and cultural
implications. Examples of houses built and developed by Glenn Murcutt
are accessible from nine sites located in More about Murcutt,
and include descriptions of how he has used design principles and environmental
considerations to produce the final product. Murcutt’s belief in
the saying ‘touch the earth lightly’ demonstrates his appreciation
of cultural influence. Extensive links to related sites provide students
with ample resources to address any tasks related to modern Australian
structures. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architects; Architecture, Australian; Architecture, Domestic
PUBLISHER: Primedia, USA
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [720.92] SCIS 1186576
HowStuffWorks
Working like an Internet search engine (but
only within their own server), this fascinating site allows users
to locate information on: how virtually any object with moving
parts works; and the meaning of commonly used terms, phrases
or customs. A keyword search facility and a range of categories
help users to locate information. Hyperlinked words within the
fact sheets lead to additional diagrams and text for further
understanding and exploration. The direct, conversational language
may appeal to students. Discussing the author's view of the audience,
and clarifying American expressions could be helpful activities.
Answers to related questions tend to be specific to America.
Students requiring additional literacy support may find this
a challenging site for independent research. This could be addressed,
for example, by clearly focussed use of the site, structured
group work, peer tutoring, and specific strategies to assist
students to read the often dense text. Devices as diverse as
toilets, computers, smoke detectors, planes and telephones are
explained using simple scientific concepts, through text and
diagrams, making this site applicable to the prescribed focus
area Applications and uses of science of the Science
Stages 4 -5 syllabus, and to several topics in the Physics: Stage 6 syllabus (approved
1999). S. Bremner, K. Heap, J. Morgan
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: Science; ST; TAS
SYLLABUS: Computing Studies 7-10; Design & Technology
7-10; Design & Technology Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage
6; Food Technology Stage 6; Physics Stage 6; Science & Technology
K-6; Science Stages 4-5
SCIS SUBJECTS: Technology
KEYWORDS: Machines; physics; science
PUBLISHER: Howstuffworks.com Inc. USA
AUTHOR: BRAIN, Marshall
REVIEW DATE: 12/9/00 SCIS 986942
Intellecta
Technologies
Robotics and control technologies are difficult
to teach or for students to understand. Students of Design
and Technology: Stage 6 syllabus (approved 1999) or Software
Design and Development: Stage 6 syllabus (approved 1999)
may like to investigate control systems as part of the design
process in their courses. Information Processes and
Technology Stage 6 syllabus (approved 1999) students when
considering the Automated Manufacturing Systems option
strand will also find the site relevant. Downloadable demonstration
software is available to simulate control systems. Some excellent
diagrams and photographs explain the concepts behind mechatronics
and robotics. The company is now making accessories to attach
to KNEX toys to use as a construction medium. P. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Information
Processes & Technology Stage 6; Software Design & Development
Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Industrial design Study and teaching;
Science Study and teaching
KEYWORDS: Automated manufacturing; control systems;
robotics
PUBLISHER: Intellecta Technologies
AUTHOR: Dr Tony Pugatschew
REVIEW DATE: 16/2/01 SCIS 1036139
EMAIL: support@intellecta.net
Introduction
to biomaterials properties database
An extensive collection of online information
charts about materials used in dental bioengineering, this site
is a useful supplement to the Engineering Studies: Stage 6
syllabus. Students could investigate properties such as: Bond strength between restorative materials and tooth structure;
Brinell hardness; coefficients of friction; dynamic and elastic
modulus; Ultimate tensile strength (UTS); and many
more. The amount of information is staggering; it provides an excellent
resource for calculations of stress and strain. Application of
materials' properties to engineering design can be realistically
followed. In many cases, both imperial and metric units are given,
and numerous common metals and alloys are shown. The charts are
relevant to other fields of bioengineering and engineering in
general. P. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Engineering Studies Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Biotechnology; Dentistry
KEYWORDS: bioengineering; Brinell; dentistry; engineering;
Ultimate Tensile Strength; UTS
PUBLISHER: University of Michigan & Quintessence
Publishing, USA
AUTHOR: Dr. William J. O'Brien
REVIEW DATE: 12/02/01 SCIS 1036113
IPAustralia
The intellectual properties Australia site is extremely
useful for students who are conducting research on any Australian patent,
design or trademark. The reading level is appropriate to senior
students. There are excellent short case studies on Australian
patents, some examples of which include the bionic ear, the orbital
engine, Victa lawn mowers and Dynamic Lifter. These case studies
examine in part the success of entrepreneurial activities, and
most have diagrams or photographs .The sections on design registrations
include case studies on the Sebel metal chair among many others.
The section on trademarks incorporates case studies on Poppy
lipsticks and the Redhead trademark. Students can read about
copyright and there are links to other relevant sites such as
the Victorian Innovation Centre, which has flow charts on the
innovation process. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U/3U Design & Technology
SCIS SUBJECTS: Inventions; Patents; Copyright
KEYWORDS: Intellectual property
PUBLISHER: IPAustralia
REVIEW DATE: 9/7/98
EVAL: Highly recommended
EMAIL: Tmhelpline@ipaustralia.gov.au
Lovitt
Technology
Visitors to this comprehensive site are given
an indication of the structure, history, and breadth of expertise
of this well recognised precision engineering company. The latest
technology is used throughout, including the transfer of drawings
from clients to their machines via the Internet. The company
works in the aerospace and defence industries, and excellent
images of the results of their various machining techniques are
shown. These are supported by descriptions of the advantages
of processes. Their emphasis on quality control and assurance
is also evident. Students of the metal technologies in particular
will find the site an indicator of current state of the art manufacturing
processes. P. Thompson, R. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design and
Technology Stage 6; Technics 7-10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Engineering - Equipment; Manufacturing
processes; Metalworking machinery
KEYWORDS: Computer Numerical Control; Lovitt; metal;
technologies
PUBLISHER: Lovitt Technology, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 12/9/00 SCIS 1031620
EMAIL: enquiries@lovittech.com.au
MatWeb,
the online materials information resource
Covering a wide range of natural and synthetic
materials, this is a huge collection of information about the
physical and chemical properties of materials. Users are able
to search for materials by: name; property; colour; metal composition;
trade name; or manufacturer. For example, one could search for
a "strong, green non conductor". Search strategies provides
tips on how to use MatWeb most efficiently. The
range of polymer based materials alone is staggering, and will
provide Engineering Studies Stage 6 syllabus (approved
1999) students and teachers with a wealth of facts to use in
the analysis of products. The site also has handy Conversion
calculator and table for engineering units and weight conversions.
P. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Engineering Studies Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Engineering; Materials
KEYWORDS: Hardness; material; metal; plastic; polymer;
strength
PUBLISHER: Automation Creations, Inc., USA
REVIEW DATE: 12/02/01 SCIS 1036120
EMAIL: webmaster@matweb.com
NEEDS: a digital library for engineering education
Engineering students and teachers will appreciate this digital library of online learning materials. The site is a useful portal for a comprehensive collection of resources in engineering and related areas of science and mathematics. Search allows for easy navigation through the index and a comprehensive search page includes drop down menus to help refine the desired criteria. A search on projects leads to many different projects related to engineering. About NEEDS has some relevant Publications and an interesting section in Current projects on the important topic of Gender equity. Community links to engineering pathways. Many areas in computing, science and engineering education are covered by the articles linked to this site. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Engineering – Education
PUBLISHER: NEEDS, USA
REVIEW DATE: 16/07/07 [620.007] SCIS 1308349
Powerhouse
Museum
The museum's site has a schools section, focusing on information
technology. Students can access the success and innovation, style
and transport pages in the Exhibitions section. Also information
on fashion and accessories. In the Collection and research section
there are short case studies with pictures of a variety of inventions
such as the Vinten black box flight recorder and the Leyland
P76. Some interesting Australian designs such as the bush pantry,
and beautifully crafted wood pieces, as well as a challenging
contemporary Aboriginal design piece by Artist Michael Jagamara
Nelson are displayed. The virtual classroom project would be
an interesting design project for Stages 3 & 4. The links
to other Australian museums online provide information on food,
electronics, building and other areas that could be pertinent
to Design and Technology students, although time would be needed
to verify the curriculum relevance of these. Teachers can download
documents which will assist them in planning units of work or
visiting the Powerhouse. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage
5 Stage 6 Professional
bScience and Technology; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; 2U/3U Design &
Technology; Science & Technology K-6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Design; Invention; Materials; Technology
KEYWORDS: Museum; Australia; Powerhouse
PUBLISHER: The Powerhouse Museum
REVIEW DATE: 9.7.98
EVAL: Highly recommended
EMAIL: Available on site
STEPS
(science & technology education in primary schools)
The STEPS program is an initiative of the
Victorian Department of Education, Employment and Training that
concerns learning about technology. Teachers contains
concise information about Redesigning a product; Communicating
scientific ideas through drawing; Recording information;
and Collecting, interpreting and analysing data. Downloadable
material for teachers is available in Planners. The challenging
activities in Students are for primary students to solve
using science and technology knowledge and facts extracted from
the site. Some games feature clever Shockwave animations.
Design and Technology Stage 6 students, and those undertaking
the Industrial Technology Stage 6 syllabus: Multimedia industries
focus area, may find this site's resources to be useful stimuli
to inspire major works. R. Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: ST; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design and Technology Stage 6; Industrial Technology
Stage 6; Science and Technology K-6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Science: Study and technology; Technology:
Study and teaching
KEYWORDS: Design; engineering; technology education
PUBLISHER: Department of Education, Employment and Training,
Victoria
REVIEW DATE: 12/02/01 SCIS 972262
EMAIL: steps@dse.vic.gov.au
Sydney Opera House
An opportunity to explore one of the world’s most
recognised architectural icons and its historical surrounds is offered
by this web resource. Toursand Guided
tours offer information for Sydney Opera House tour and Backstage
tour. The fully interactive feature, Virtual tour,
provides access to all areas of the Sydney Opera House including the
stage, backstage area and studios. Panoramic views of various aspects
of the Opera House are available through a Flash based presentation.
The presentation takes a short time to upload, and is well worth the
wait. Students completing civics based subjects will be able to access
images and information from a dynamic timeline of Sydney, from 1788 to
the present, found in About the house. For Stage 4 and
Stage 5 students, this site would make a fantastic destination for any
web quest based on Australian architecture or the history of prominent
Australian cities. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology Stage 6; History 7–10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, Australian
PUBLISHER: Sydney Opera House
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [725] SCIS 1187130
Tall buildings
Thewebsite of a 2004 exhibition takes a look at 25 of the world’s tallest buildings, such as the new World Trade Centre, London Bridge Tower, Jin Mao and the New York Times HQ. Information for each includes the architect, design and floor plans, images, material structure and history. The site is easily navigated with Flash animations giving construction and contextual detail. As well as individual pages for each building, the website allows for comparison of the buildings in regard to their height, geographic location, program distribution and total area. Students of design, engineering and architecture would benefit from using this site when looking at building designs. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Skyscrapers - Design and construction
PUBLISHER: Museum of Modern Art, USA
REVIEW DATE: 17/12/07 [720] SCIS 1313505
Technologystudent.com:
a design and technology site
A terrific resource for technology students and teachers, this web site is
packed with information and online interactive exercises. Subject areas include
robotics, computers, Electronics, Equipment and processes, Gears
and pulleys,
and Graphics. From the site's activities students can gain an understanding
of workshop Health and safety, technological development over the years in
Technology and cultures, and alternative energy sources in Technology
and the environment. Teachers are provided with project templates and project
ideas. The web site is easy to use and is visually appealing. A feature of
the resource is the site search facility, which is extremely efficient and
provides excellent responses. A. Kokkotas
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology Stage 6; Graphics Technology 7-10; Information & Software
Technology 7-10; Technology (Mandatory) 7-8
SCIS SUBJECTS: Industrial design; Technology
PUBLISHER: V. Ryan, UK
REVIEW DATE: 01/03/06 [745.2] SCIS 1244107
The
Exploratorium’s science of cycling
The second in a series of three planned sports science resources, this
is a large website, with over 20 pages in six main sections. It has 20
audio and video clips, interactive javascripts, and lots of images. Easy
to navigate, the website provides a detailed look at Drives and
gears, the design and mechanics
behind Frames and materials, Braking and steering development
and design, and Aerodynamics and Human power.
This website provides an interesting and informative look at the specific design
of a product and its development over time. A. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage
4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA; Science; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7–10; Design & Technology
Stage 6; Engineering Studies Stage 6; Science 7–10; Visual Design 7–10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Bicycles and cycling
PUBLISHER: Exploratorium,
USA
REVIEW DATE: 26/05/06 [796.6015] SCIS
1248439
United
States Patent and Trademark Office home page
General information about patenting and trademarks,
and a full text and image database of patent articles, are found
at this huge, searchable site. The resulting pages give a comprehensive
product description, and these would need to be further analysed
to discern exactly what the product is able to do. Bibliographic
and full text searches for products are available. Teachers may
find the site a useful adjunct to technological literacy work.
Technical language is used throughout. P. Thompson, R Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design & Technology
Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Inventions; Patents; Trademarks
KEYWORDS: Patent; trademark
PUBLISHER: US Patent and Trademark Office SCIS
1031597
REVIEW DATE: 12/9/00
EMAIL: webmaster@uspto.gov
UTS home
page
At this very comprehensive site, students can access
the UTS faculties that offer courses which relate to the content examined
in Design and Technology. There are extensive courses in marketing,
and the Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building lists many
fields of study such as fashion design. Course details and information
about careers are outlined in this section. There is information
about student life at UTS. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U/3U Design & Technology
SCIS SUBJECTS: Universities and colleges
KEYWORDS: University; technology; design
PUBLISHER: UTS
REVIEW DATE: 10.7.98
EMAIL: info.office@uts.edu.au
Vegemite
The Australian innovation of Vegemite is presented
on this site. It has a time line, which provides information about
the inventors,
and profiles the marketing and growth of vegemite since its conception.
The site is relevant for senior students in Design and Technology,
as it details the historical development of marketing techniques,
the trademark and the package over 75 years. The site also has
detailed nutritional information, recipes, lots of photos, animation,
and an individual growth chart. T. Baghurst
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage
5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: Science & Technology; TAS
SYLLABUS: 2U Design and Technology; 2U Food Technology;
Science & Technology K-6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Nutrition; Marketing
KEYWORDS: Vegemite
PUBLISHER: Kraft Foods
REVIEW DATE: 10.7.98
EMAIL: Not available
Woodworking
plans: Adirondack chairs, wood working projects, woodworking
plans
Though the plans on this site are for sale,
a huge range of project ideas, with good images, are provided.
Students should find enough variations on a theme to enable them
to stretch their own imagination in the design and development
of their own projects. An E-zine is available to have
updates on plans and associated accessories regularly emailed.
The site has plans for a variety of projects, such as a Cessna
airplane model made from recycled aluminium cans. Project
categories include: indoor and outdoor furniture; Kids plans; Airplanes;
bird houses; and a range of seasonal projects. P. Thompson, R Thompson
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Community Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Design &Technology
Stage 6; Technics 7-10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Woodwork
KEYWORDS: Furniture; models; timber; plans; projects
PUBLISHER: Gold Country Woodworks, USA
REVIEW DATE: 12/9/00 SCIS 1031183
EMAIL: webmaster@gcwoodworks.com
YBE2004:
Houses of the Future
Part of the Year of the Built Environment, this web site supports a
travelling exhibition of housing designs. The emphasis is on prefabricated
dwellings which display innovative design and environmental sustainability.
Six houses are shown on the site, with vibrant images and well written
texts explaining the Design concept, the architects
role, use of materials, and construction. Information supporting the
use of prefabricated housing is found in Why prefabricate?,and
the site will be appreciated by Stage 5 students of Design and Technology
who are undertaking Unit 5.2 The shack , Unit 5.6 Design
for the future . Students of Stage 6 Design and Technology seeking
a major project with an architectural focus should look at this inspirational
site. The exhibition is due to arrive at Sydney Olympic Park early
in 2005. D. Low
USER LEVEL: Stage 4Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 710; Design & Technology
Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Architecture, Domestic; Architecture – Environmental
aspects; Houses Design and construction; Houses Environmental
aspects
PUBLISHER: NSW Secretariat, Year of the Built Environment 2004
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [728] SCIS 1185646
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